Although the vote gives the union the right to negotiate wages and benefits, child care provider Rosemary Raygada said their first demand will be greater professional development opportunities. “All we’re looking for is to make sure that we get as professionals what we need to serve our communities,” said Raygada. “Right now all we’re looking to get is the development, the training that we need and that everyone gets it in the language that they need it.”

The vote was denounced as fraudulent by the Rhode Island Center for Freedom and Prosperity. The group has criticized the unionization of child care workers on the basis of the cost to taxpayers and the potential for reduced services.

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